DAY 9 - UA ULE CREEK TO OWERS' CORNER

Saturday 04 July

The final night on the Kokoda Track was filled with mixed emotions — relief at being so close to the finish and awe at how quickly the past nine days had flown. At first light the group set off, crossing the creek half a dozen times over the hour-long approach to the base of Imita Ridge. The hour-long climb up Imita proved for many the hardest ascent of the trek. After descending toward Goodwater village for a short break, they continued to Dump 66 to read the famous poem “Fuzzy‑Wuzzy Angel,” penned by Sapper Bert Beros.

An hour’s walk brought them to the Goldie River, where the group crossed, linked arms and reflected on the past nine days. A final 45‑minute push — the last 15 minutes exposed and in the open — delivered them to Owers’ Corner. They celebrated with cold drinks and a BBQ before visiting Bomana War Cemetery to pay their respects. The day will end back at the five‑star Airways Hotel with a celebration dinner for the trekkers, guides and porters who made the journey possible.